POMEGRANATES

How to Choose a PomegranateFor eating or juicing, select pomegranates by weight, not by color. Pomegranates are only picked when they are perfectly ripe on the inside. The outside of a ripe pomegranate can vary from pink to a deep ruby red. Keep in mind that the heavier the pomegranates are, the more juice they contain.

For decorating, select pomegranates by color, size and general appearance.

How to Store a Pomegranate Unopened pomegranates can last up to one month on the counter or two months in the refrigerator. Fresh arils can last two weeks in the refrigerator in a sealed plastic container and frozen arils can last for many months in the freezer.

To freeze pomegranate arils, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with wax paper. Place in a freezer for two hours or until frozen, and transfer frozen arils to a resealable plastic bag or container. Frozen arils can be enjoyed well after the season has ended.